(a) whether the Government has taken note of the death of animals in various zoos throughout the country every year;
(b) if so, the details thereof including the total number of animal deaths reported in zoos during the last three years, State/UT-wise;
(c) the main reasons for death of animals in the zoos; and
(d) the various efforts made by the Government to bring down the mortality rate of animals?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT, FOREST AND CLIMATE CHANGE
(SHRI BABUL SUPRIYO)
(a) and (b) Yes, Sir. As per the information received from the Central Zoo Authority, the details of animal deaths reported in various zoos during the last three years, State/UT-wise is at Annexure-1.
(c) and (d) As informed by the Central Zoo Authority, the main reasons reported for death of animals in zoos include old age, diseases and infighting. The Central Zoo Authority has taken following steps for better upkeep and health care of animals housed in zoos across the country and to bring down mortality in particular:
(i) The Recognition of Zoo Rules, 2009 has been framed by Government of India for ensuring better health, upkeep and veterinary care of captive animals.
(ii) An advisory has been issued to all States/UTs to constitute a Health Advisory Committee to advise the zoo operators in the State/UT on Animal Health care related matters and with a mandate to monitor compliance with the Rules regarding upkeep and health care of animals.
(iii) The Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly has been designated as National Referral Centre for extending necessary help to zoos in the country for health care and veterinary care of the captive animals.
(iv) The Central Zoo Authority regularly evaluates zoos recognized under Section 38-H of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 and directs the zoos to construct enclosures for animals to protect from harsh climatic conditions.